Senate confirms Pollack to Hawaii Supreme Court

In a Special Session, the Hawaii State Senate on Friday confirmed Judge Richard W. Pollack as an associate justice to the Supreme Court.

Pollack was nominated by Gov. Neil Abercrombie and was subject to Senate confirmation. He fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Justice James E. Duffy, Jr.

“We are confident that Justice Pollack will serve the Supreme Court well with his extensive experience as a judge in the Circuit Court,” said Senate President Shan Tsutsui. “We believe he will uphold our state constitution and work to ensure that the laws are applied fairly, equally and appropriately for all the people of Hawaii.”

“Judge Richard Pollack will be a valuable asset to the Hawaii Supreme Court. His compassion, integrity and knowledge of the law will guide him in service to the people of Hawaii. I am honored to have Chaired his confirmation,” said Clayton Hee, chairman of the Committee on Judiciary and Labor.

Pollack, 61, has been serving as a judge in the Circuit Court since 2000, presiding over the civil and criminal trial calendar. During that time period, he served as a substitute justice and substitute Intermediate Court of Appeals judge on numerous occasions.

Pollack is an adjunct professor at the William S. Richardson School of Law where he currently teaches Law of Evidence and Criminal Procedure.

Prior to his appointment to the Circuit Court bench, Pollack served as the State Public Defender from 1987 to 2000.

He managed a statewide office of 99 attorneys and was actively involved in appellate work during his tenure.